Bardisms

Shakespeare for All Occasions

About the Book

“Browse the delightful Bardisms to find a fitting quote for any mood, moment, or occasion. But read it through to learn how to enjoy Shakespeare and bring more of his language into your daily life.” — Jacob Weisberg, Editor of Slate magazine and author of Bushisms

From renowned Shakespearean director Barry Edelstein comes Bardisms: a straightforward, accessible guide to using Shakespeare’s wit and wisdom at special occasions of every type. Over the course of his career, Edelstein has directed more than half of Shakespeare’s plays, and he brings all his passion, insight, and years of study to Bardisms. In the words of Adam Gopnik (Through the Children's Gate), “Barry Edelstein knows more about Shakespeare, and in a less pedantic manner, than nearly anyone I know.”

Book Description

Looking for an ideal toast, quip, or remark for that special occasion—or the perfect pithy comment to enliven an everyday conversation? Ask Shakespeare!

A wedding vow—"To you I give myself, for I am yours" (As You Like It)

A birthday greeting—to me, fair fried, you can never be old. (Sonnet 104)

Party time!—"Let's mock the midnight bell." (Antony and Cleopatra)

The plays and poetry of the Immortal Bard make up a vast repository of wit and wisdom, insight and passion. If there's an occasion that needs commemorating, chances are there are some lines from Shakespeare that will do the job right. Whether you want to "speak the speech" with verve and flair or craft an elegant toast, lecture, or missive, world-renowned Shakespearean director and teacher Barry Edelstein will help you find the perfect "Bardism" for any occasion.

Educator and Librarian Resources

Critical Praise

“Shakespeare always said it best, and after reading this accessible and insightful book, ‘I am sorry that with better heed and judgment I had not quoted him.’ (Hamlet)” —Kevin Kline

“No Google search can discover all of what’s in this book, which is a cornucopia of the Bard’s wit and wisdom. Barry Edelstein’s book is pure pleasure, a reference book for every occasion, a substitute for a game of charades, and a teaching guide for life.” —Ken Auletta, author and New Yorker writer

“Bardisms is smart, accessible, and fun and could only have been crafted by someone as passionate and knowledgeable as Barry Edelstein. It is the perfect book to help people put Shaksepeare, not up on some shelf, but in their everyday lives.” —George C. Wolfe, writer/director/producer

“Browse the delightful Bardisms to find a fitting quote for any mood, moment, or occasion. But read it through to learn how to enjoy Shakespeare and bring more of his language into your daily life.” —Jacob Weisberg, Editor, Slate Magazine, author Bushisms

“Barry Edelstein’s passion for the Bard and sheer knowledge of his works is inspiring. Bardisms is an eloquent and enlightening book that allows everyone to feel like an expert on Shakespeare.” —America Ferrera

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